Suzuki Method
The Suzuki Method is a teaching approach that originated in Japan by a man called Shinichi Suzuki on the violin. Today it is used by millions of teachers and students across the globe on many instruments.
The merits of this method are the wholesome music education that it provides the student by providing such a rich learning environment that nurtures and nourishes the students and families for success in technique and posture, critical elements in instrument mastery- particularly string instruments.
The Method also allows children from a very tender age to start learning the instrument through the development of preparatory skills. In 2019, Catherine will use repertoire from the Suzuki approach to all students allowing the opportunity for group lessons and workshops with specialist teachers from across the country and world.
To become a Suzuki Student you must join the association and carefully read the below information.
Please have a look at the following video and consult Catherine before committing yourself and your child.
In the Method Students are required to:
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Use the Suzuki books 1-10
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Learn new pieces aurally (by ear)
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Memorise and Master every piece
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Continuously revise old pieces
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Use known repertoire to practice new techniques
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Attend performances of more advanced Suzuki students
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Perform regularly with other students learning the same pieces
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Attend workshops and festivals with other Suzuki families
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Upload videos of mastered pieces
This method is most suitable for your child if your child learns best:
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Aurally
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With others
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With competition/goals
Whilst requiring more:
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Discipline
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Parental involvement
For your child to succeed, please carefully consider this method which will naturally foster your child. If you cannot commit to all of the above elements your child will struggle in some areas to progress. (Please refer to teacher)
With the Suzuki Method, a given year would look like:
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One individual lesson per week (with parent in attendance*)
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Compulsory Group lessons with other Suzuki students (when arranged)
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Regular performances at concerts (At least each term)
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Attendance at one Suzuki festival per year (September)**
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Regular uploading of mastered pieces/sections (Weekly-Monthly)
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Attendance at the end of year Graduation Ceremony (November) ***
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Annual Membership Fee****
*In the Suzuki Method- the parent is the facilitator of practice at home. If the parent is not able to attend lessons they must still hold accountabilityof homework tasks. Understandably, being present at lessons makes communication easier between the teacher and parent easier/clearer and if the parent is not a musician/player of the instrument then new techniques and tasks can be learnt during lessons together with the student. Parents must not assume that the student can do everything on their own in this method and must take accountability as often students are selective or do not wish to practice certain things they do not understand. Having parents sit in on lessons keeps students more focussed and disciplined as through your attention they feel the importance of the lesson and their performance during the lesson. Students are able to produce more quality practice as by parents managing and keeping track of their tasks they are able to focus their energy and time on the work.
**The only Suzuki festival in QLD is held in Beenleigh in September each year. It brings together interstate and international masters and students. It is an essential element of Suzuki pedagogy. If for some reason the September Festival cannot be made, then arrangements to travel interstate or overseas should be made to attend another festival.
***The Graduation Ceremony is a wonderful concert that showcases the whole spectrum of the Suzuki Method from pre-twinkles to book 10. Students on the Gold Coast have the opportunity to play Concertos with the live accompaniment of an orchestra (the GCYO) and celebrate the milestone of completing a book with fellow graduates and community. The Graduation concert is essential for students to understand the development and progression of the Suzuki Method and is an opportunity to watch older students and listen to pieces. (Listening is a form of practising for the Suzuki student).
****The Annual Membership fee is essential in maintaining the Method’s quality and community support. The fee covers administration and a network to an international community. Teachers of the Method are ensured to have world class up-to-date professional development and festivals as well as newsletters, group lessons, graduation assessments, festivals, concerts and music publishing are made possible.